Selection and censorship: librarians and their collections

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the issues raised in the report, Hate on the State, published in 2007.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a reflective viewpoint that debates the points made in the report and their wider implications for the profession.

Findings

The report raised key issues around censorship, and the role of the librarian in selecting a balanced collection for their public. These concerns need to be debated at length, since they represent fundamental professional concerns.

Practical implications

The paper debates key professional concerns and how changes in stock procurement may lead to future occurrences of such controversies.

Originality/value

This is the only editorial to date related to this report in library literature.

Citation

McMenemy, D. (2008), "Selection and censorship: librarians and their collections", Library Review, Vol. 57 No. 5, pp. 341-344. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530810875122